About Sheldon Caruna
Sheldon Caruana’s educational journey started at Sheridan College with completion of a 3-year Child and Youth Worker program. From there, he went to work as Youth Amplifier working for the Ontario Provincial Child Advocate for Children and Youth, advocating for systemic change of Ontario’s child welfare system to address gaps, inequities, and poor outcomes experienced by youth. Motivated by the courageous youth leaders, he went on to pursue his BA in Child and Youth Care at Ryerson University. During his studies, he deepened his understanding of research, racial inequities, and developed passion for community building through agriculture. Currently, he is focused on building the capacity of the Black community in Peel, through the development of a Black-led youth farming project in Peel and access to higher education. He hopes to continue to deepen his understanding of local issues that his community faces and uplift the next generation through access to leadership opportunities, the creation of safe community space and meaningful education.
Sheldon’s Q+A
What made you want to work with BYSSI?
“Before working with BYSSI, I’ve always wanted to work with an organization that supports black youth and families. Working with BYSSI has given me the opportunity to combine my passion for working with youth and my aspiration for making a difference in the lives of my people.”
What do you enjoy about working with BYSSI youth & families?
“What I enjoy about working with BYSSI youth and families is that we’re all striving towards a common goal. We want a better life for the current and future generations of Black people. Everything we do is a contribution to the betterment of our futures and changing the way the world views us as a people. Building connections with BYSSI youth/families is something I take a lot of pride in.
One comment about the Education and Black students in Peel?
“Black students need to be given the opportunity to graduate from the Peel school system with multiple options. Having the power to choose the path they take is game-changing.”